When Dan Rothermell talks, more firefighters are starting to pay attention.
Rothermell, a York County native, spoke to firefighters in Lancaster during a fire chiefs convention.
In 2004, nearly 20 years into his firefighting career, Rothermell was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
“I was diagnosed and thought it was the end of the world,” Rothermell said.
Rothermell, now cancer-free, says he shares his story as a cautionary tale for fellow firefighters.
“It’s a rude awakening when you’re sitting across from the doctor and she says you have to get your affairs in order,” he said.
Rothermell is teaming with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and urging for more protection for firefighters.
“It’s really important as firemen that we have to get our gear cleaned regularly,” Rothermell said.